This timeline explores the personal life of Bill Gates, including his marriage, family, and other significant relationships.
Meeting Melinda French
1987
Bill Gates meets Melinda French, a Microsoft employee, at a company trade fair in New York City.
Marriage to Melinda French
January 1, 1994
Bill Gates marries Melinda French in a private ceremony on the Hawaiian island of Lanai.
Jennifer Katharine Gates Born
1996
Their first child, Jennifer Katharine Gates, is born.
Rory John Gates Born
1999
Their second child, Rory John Gates, is born.
Phoebe Adele Gates Born
2002
Their third child, Phoebe Adele Gates, is born.
Family Life
1990s-2021
Bill and Melinda Gates raise their three children in Medina, Washington. They prioritize family time and instill in their children a sense of responsibility and philanthropy.
Divorce Announcement
May 3, 2021
Bill and Melinda Gates announce their decision to divorce after 27 years of marriage. They state that they will continue to work together at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Divorce Finalized
August 2, 2021
The divorce of Bill and Melinda Gates is finalized.
Continuing Philanthropic Partnership
Post-Divorce
Despite their divorce, Bill and Melinda Gates continue to co-chair the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, working together to address global challenges.
Relationship with Paula Hurd
Late 2022-Present
Begins dating Paula Hurd, the widow of former HP CEO Mark Hurd.
